In the face of several deadly shootings and other violent criminal acts, Barbadians will soon see some new and intensified approaches from two of the largest local religious denominations.
Anglican and Catholic church leaders plan to roll out various programmes to combat the surge in crime.
Anglican Bishop Michael Maxwell, and his Catholic counterpart Bishop Neil Scantlebury, gave some insight into the way forward following Midday Mass at the St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Cathedral.
Bishop Maxwell says the number of murders is too high and the source of the guns should be investigated.
He’s identified a number of factors such as the high cost of living, unemployment, drug use, cracks in the education system and social erosion as root causes.
However, the Anglican head says his church will be looking to work closer with schools across the island, with the hopes of rolling out a new programme this September to bring earlier interventions for at-risk youth.
And Catholic Bishop of Bridgetown, Neil Scantlebury, believes the crime surge stems from a slide in values.
Stressing the need for people to pray for guidance and forgiveness, he says the bloodshed and crime are uncalled for.
The head of the local Catholic Church says attention needs to be given the island’s air and sea borders to determine the source of weapons.
He also wants to see stiffer penalties for gun possession.
Regarding youth, he says they should be involved in sports and other wholesome activities.
He’s also outlined some of the plans his church will be introducing soon, which include prayer and healing sessions.
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